The Ssangyong XLV Air SUV design concept has made its global premiere at the Frankfurt Motor Show 2015. The concept previews the 7-seat Tivoli variant with a longer body. The production of the extended Tivoli will be ready sometime next year.
The concept gives us a basic idea on what design changes to expect on the longer version of the Tivoli. While the styling would be identical from the front fascia up to the C-pillar, things take a new direction post it. The added real estate is composed of blacked out D-pillars, prominent rear quarter glass panels that give a wraparound windshield effect, muscular rear haunches and larger LED taillights that extend to the fenders.
We don’t expect to see much changes to the interior as it already is modern and well laid out. Going by the concept, though the 7-seat version is based on the same platform that underpins the 5-seater version, the former is likely to have an extended wheelbase to squeeze out more interior space.
The production version of 7-seat Tivoli variant would inherit the 1.6-litre petrol and diesel engines from the existing model.
The Ssangyong Tivoli 7-seat (could adopt a different nameplate altogether) will also inherit its powertrain lineup form its smaller sibling. Buyers in Europe can choose from 1.6-litre petrol and diesel engines, mated to 6-speed manual or automatic transmissions. Both 4×2 and 4×4 configurations will be on offer.
Given that the Ssangyong Tivoli 7-seat has the right size, styling and composition for the Indian market, we strongly expect it to make it here eventually. It would be a highly tempting proposition if Mahindra manages to position it as a 7-seat alternative to the popular Hyundai Creta but that would need extensive localization.
The Ssangyong XAV-Adventure off-road concept which was unveiled earlier this year in South Korea is also being showcased at Frankfurt. The car previews the next gen Korando.
